Recommended by dermatologists, Avène Rétrinal + 0.1 Cream is currently one of the most innovative skincare products on the market.

Available in three different strengths including 0.1% retrinal (French for retinol) which is currently the highest amount of retrinal available in an over-the-counter product. The lowest strength is 0.025%, which is where someone who has never used a retrinal product should begin. Classified as dermo-cosmetics, Avène Rétrinal Skin Care products are considered to be cutting edge skincare with a medical approach to skincare.

Avène Rétrinal + 0.1 Cream is quite effective for a couple of reasons. The product is a form of Vitamin A which through clinical studies has been proven to improve elasticity, radiance and skin texture – as well as reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. You will get the normal side effects with any retrinal/retinol product – skin sensitivity, peeling, dry skin. But it is all well-worth the end result. Clear, glowing, firm skin.

The easy to apply product should be applied to the face and neck after cleansing. As with all anti-aging products it is imperative that broad-spectrum sunscreen be used at all times when exposed to the sun.

I have used many retinol/retrinal products, over-the-counter and prescription – this is by far the best over-the-counter product I have used.

Overexposing your hair to heat styling takes a big toll on the health of your hair. It dries out the hair cuticle and exacerbates breakage. Hot tools are great for quick-drying and quick-styling. If you are a hot tools addict, try taking one/two days-off per week to let hair air-dry naturally and/or try this heatless styling technique. Your hair will thank you later.

NEED:

❖ Duckbill Clips

❖ Spray Bottle for water

❖ Hairspray

Optional: Sea Salt Spray

HOW TO:

❖ Start with 2nd day hair.

❖ Grab a section of your hair. The larger the section the looser the wave.

❖ Wrap section of hair around two to three fingers and roll towards the scalp. Pin hair with small duckbill clips (bobby pins will leave a crease).

❖ Wrap the hair in the direction you want the curl to fall. Inward curls, outward curls or ‘S’ -shaped curls – alternating between both.

❖ When you have pin-curled the entire head. Spray water to dampen the curls – donot soak.

Fun Fact: In the 20’s pin-curls were also called “spit curls” because they used to spit on them instead of spraying water.

❖ Let your hair completely dry. If you want to do this at night and sleep on your curls, wrap a scarf around your head to prevent fall-out and frizz.

❖ Take out all the clips – carefully.

❖ Finger brush the curls and adjust.

❖ Spray with hairspray.

Options:

◆ Focus on where you pin the curls. I like to pin them just above the ear, leaving 2-3 inches from the top of my head.

◆ Try different methods of wrapping your hair to create a variety looks. For a simple wavy look – take extra big sections. For a more bohemian look – twist the hair and then pin-curl. For more texture – use a combination of water and sea salt spray.

Erase and repair imperfections with Miracle Skin Transformer Treat & Conceal. The first-ever naturally derived silicone-based concealer is designed for use on both the under eye area and the face. It will CORRECT, COVER and PROTECT all of your skin’s concerns leaving you with a flawless complexion.

This multifunctional concealer is formulated with the brand’s signature MST complex – white rose and chamomile extracts to calm inflammation, vitamin K to reverse dark circles, and vitamin F to improve skin tone. It also has an additional laundry list of actives to correct all of your top skin concerns:

• Minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet
• Reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness for a brighter look
• Diminish the look of age spots, discolorations and sun damaged skin
• Firm and tone the look of skin in the eye area
• Cover and heal dark spots, blemishes and surface redness
• Smooth, even and easy application, may also be used as an eye shadow base

The silicone-rich formula is what makes this product stand out from the rest. The smooth, velvety texture glides over any imperfection and/or dryness without caking or flaking. It is truly groundbreaking for covering dry-patches and irritated skin/blemishes. When I use retinol products for the eye area, it can get a bit drying. This is the only under-eye concealer that does not accentuate the dryness and/or sink into the creases. All the while, treating and repairing the areas of concern.

ABOUT MIRACLE SKIN TRANSFORMER:

Sarah McNamara tapped into more than 15-years of experience in the corporate beauty world to bring us Miracle Skin Transformer. Miracle Skin Transformer creates the ﬁrst-ever, one-step application products designed to instantly transform your skin. Developed with naturally-derived silicones, these formulations contain powerful protection and hydration beneﬁts leaving you with a smooth, radiant, airbrushed ﬁnish… in seconds.

Over the course of her career, Sarah has repeatedly found that “consumers are choosing to buy less in order to buy better, reflecting a desire for products that possess greater meaning in their lives.” After years of launching multi-million dollar brands within corporations, Sarah is well aware of the industry’s marketing tactics encouraging women to purchase more products than they really need to.

Today’s beauty consumer is savvier than ever. They want products that fit their active lifestyles and their beauty regimes, which include visits to dermatologists and cosmetic spas.

In August of 2010, after one year of extensive research with leading chemists, Sarah launched Miracle Skin Transformer SPF 20 on http://www.miracleskintransformer.com. Partnering with major beauty magazines, deluxe-size samples were offered to consumers who signed up on the website in the months leading up to the launch. This sampling promotion gave the brand an instant database of consumers, over 350,000 signed up.

In addition to consumer research groups, social media has played a key role in building consumer relationships and validating the concept and formulation of the brand.

Sarah positioned Miracle Skin Transformer as a prestige cosmetic brand via a successful online and national magazine PR campaign. It has been featured in The New York Times, Redbook, Brides, InStyle, Marie Claire, Shape, Star, W, People Style Watch, and other leading fashion and beauty magazines. It was also featured on the Dr. Oz Show as one of beauty’s “2 Minute Miracles” in November of 2010.

Miracle Skin Transformer currently sells at niche pharmacies and beauty stores nationwide, as well as at http://www.beauty.com. In August 2011, Sarah will unveil Miracle Skin Transformer Body, a body treatment that enhances the skin with color pigments, protects with SPF and natural silicone, and hydrates with vitamins and other plant extracts. Continued distribution in premium retailers and working with top departments across the country, as well as international distribution within next year.

A New Zealand native, Sarah McNamara has lived on 4 continents and held senior positions with Elizabeth Arden, L’Oreal, Unilever, Valentino, Fendi, and even Goldman Sachs. She currently lives in New York City, with her husband and 2 boys, Nicholas and Aidan. Sarah McNamara is available for speaking engagements at functions or events on topics such as “Starting a Business from Scratch” and “Building a Brand through Social Media”. Her achievements and recognitions speak for themselves and make Sarah a great choice as a motivational speaker.

Vapour Organic Beautyconsists of high-performing natural products, made with 70 percent organic ingredients. The line is formulated without water or other fillers, which means they are super concentrated and enjoy a longer shelf life. Vapour only uses biodegradable ingredients and recyclable packaging in order to minimize their environmental footprint.

Vapour touts Stratus Soft Focus Instant Skin Perfector as the original organic BB Cream; a 3-in-1 moisturizer, primer and no-color foundation. Stratus Soft Focus Instant Skin Perfector is applied like a primer and leaves a smooth base for makeup application while achieving a natural soft satin finish. From the first application you will see a difference as it works instantly to blur imperfections, hydrate the skin and add radiance without a trace of residue. Vapour’s Light Reflective Technology immediately perfects the appearance of your skin – revealing a younger and fresh complexion.

*** In an independent study 8 out of 10 people who tried Stratus saw an immediate improvement in their skin tone and texture. Seven out of 10 people saw an immediate decrease in the appearance of lines, wrinkles and pores.***

Effortlessly achieve the look of radiant, healthy skin with Atmosphere Soft Focus Foundation. This buildable, medium-to-full coverage foundation delivers a flawless and luminous finish. The lightweight formula evens the complexion and instantly perfects the skin. Vapour’s Light Reflective Technology is used to blur the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and pores. Atmosphere Soft Focus Foundation feels extremly moisturizing and nourishing on the skin. Easy to apply, it blends beautifully into the skin and provides the perfect naturally healthy finish. Great for use in the colder months when skin looks dull and lackluster – this foundation will brings the skin back to life.

Both Stratus Soft Focus Instant Skin Perfector and Atmosphere Soft Focus Foundation are made with 70% Certified Organic ingredients and 30% natural mineral pigments & vitamins. Nourishes with Organic Pumpkin and Papaya complex and brightens skin with Organic Camellia. Infused with Vapour’s face specific infusion of anti-inflammatory Frankincense, antioxidant Tulsi and moisturizing and calming Lotus flowers. All the performance of a luxury moisturizer and foundation with none of the chemicals.

Vapour Organic Beauty raises the bar for revolutionary performance and purity with their Soft Focus line. Designed to balance all skin types, including combination and oily skin, the Soft Focus line will work for everyone. Both of these products can be worn separately, however, when used together they create the dynamic duo.

The eyeshadow quad consists of a light gold, a burnt sienna, a warm chocolate and a metallic charcoal. There are so many color combinations possible and each one compliments the other.

The texture of the finely-milled eyeshadows are creamy and buttery. Extremely pigmented and blend-able, so I recommend using a light hand when applying. These eyeshadows wear about six-eight hours before fading.

To get a smoldering earth tone eye look:

Apply the dark metallic charcoal close to the lash line and beneath the eye line. Then, blend the burnt sienna and warm chocolate hues in the crease for definition. Lastly, add the light gold to inner corner for a highlight.

Australia’s best-selling skincare brand – Alpha-H – was born from a desire to make a difference to one’s skin. Best summed up as a cosmaceutical range, Alpha-H bridges the gap between skincare and cosmetic procedures. The professional-grade formulas improve the appearance of your skin’s tone, texture and clarity almost instantly.

As one of the first Australian companies to develop glycolic cosmeceutical skincare, Alpha-H products contain a scientific blend of Vitamins A, C and E with naturally harvested ingredients. The combination is designed to assist in treating lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and acne problems. Alpha-H’s team of scientists spent years developing the best formulations for optimal skin health. Alpha-H believes in using active ingredients, not fillers, for maximum and fast results.

Liquid Gold, the brand’s hero product has developed a cult following around the world. As the name suggests, Liquid Gold is a luxurious indulgence for the skin. It is a powerful resurfacing and firming solution that jump-starts the skin to help refine enlarged pores while improving the appearance of fine lines, acne scarring and pigmentation to deliver a brighter more radiant complexion. Key ingredients such as licorice and 5% Glycolic extract leave the skin looking more youthful, plump and energized.

One of the best skincare lines I have ever used, Alpha-H provides quick and tangible results. After just one week, I noticed an enormous difference with the texture of my skin. After a couple months, I have noticed dark spots fading, firmer texture and less breakouts.

Last night, Alpha H launched in the US. Products are now easily accessible HERE.

These cream eyeshadows are like nothing I have tried before. Extremely lightweight in texture, the formula glides effortlessly onto the lids. They feel like velvet on the skin and the smudge-proof formula lasts all day. The consistency is both layerable and buildable providing options for a sheer or dramatic application.

Available in five gorgeous shades:

♦ Chiffon – shimmering ivory pearl

♦ Feather – shimmering pink champagne

♦ Organza – shimmering lavender taupe

♦ Cashmere – shimmering golden taupe

♦ Suede – shimmering golden bronze

When deciding on whether to use a cream or powder eye shadow, take into consideration factors such as your age and skin type. Powder eye shadows that contain shimmers may settle in wrinkles, fine lines and/or sagging eye lids. Cream shadow is a better option for women of age as they will create a smooth base. If you have very oily skin, using a cream eyeshadow can be frustrating. When combined with your skin’s natural oils, the eyeshadow may quickly smear or seep into the crease. This is an easy fix – as cream eyeshadows can also be used as primers. First apply your favorite cream eyeshadow then set with a powder or powder eyeshadow to absorb excess oil. Not only with the color last and last – but mixing these textures reveals beautiful dimension and light-reflecting properties.

All Jouer products offer a smart packaging solution. Constructed with interlocking sides, every product from lip gloss to face powder “snap-together,” making it easy to mix and match your favorites into the perfect palette.

I am currently having a small love affair with Jouer Cosmetics. Quality formulas, wearable colors and intelligent packaging – what more could you ask for. More reviews to come.

The cap toe trend is evolving this Fall with a little texture. From shiny gold caps to spikes, studs and rhinestones, the simple flat is getting interesting.

A great pair of flats that can be worn with both workplace-appropriate attire and casual weekend pieces is a worthy investment. Loeffler Randall’s Natalie Studded Toe Flats fit the bill – a sleek cap toe keeps the look on-trend but still polished, while the gold studs add texture and whimsy.

The Natalie Studded Toe Flats are the perfect hybrid of comfort and style. Traverse around the city or trek to work in shoes that won’t ‘fall’ flat.

Rodial Glam Balm MULTI: A brilliant multi-use anti-aging balm that feels luxurious and solves all manner of beauty woes from flaking skin to dry knees. This cult product has been ordained “The Swiss Army Knife of Beauty Products,” for it’s wide variety of uses. The new formula “MULTI” has added the anti-aging benefits of 3D Hyaluronic Filling Spheres to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Favorite use: In-flight moisturizing mask. FULL REVIEW OF RODIAL GLAM BALM: HERE

Egyptian Magic: Living up to it’s namesake, this olive oil and honey-based balm works magic on elbows, knees and everything in between. Formulated with all-natural ingredients this magical balm has been used for centuries to care for and nourish the skin. Favorite use: a moisturizer to help extend your summer tan. FULL REVIEW OF EGYPTIAN MAGIC: HERE

Dr. Lipp Original Nipple Balm for Lips: (Yes, you read that right…) Recommended by midwives, this balm was originally designed to relieve the dry, painful nipples associated with breastfeeding. Makeup artists discovered many other uses: hydrating skin and lips on the fly/highlighting cheek bones/eye gloss – and it soon became an industry secret. Formulated with 100% medical-grade lanolin, this balm reduces skin roughness by up to 40% in an hour. It also acts as a barrier to prevent any moisture from escaping or bacteria from entering. Favorite use: Eye cream.

The Balm – By Nieves: This concentrated balm is made with all-natural ingredients that moisturize, heal and soothe the skin; softening coconut oil, antioxidant-rich sesame oil, calming virginia cedar, healing lavender and balancing ylang ylang. Orange extract releases an uplifting and zesty aroma and provides a healthy glow to the skin and hair. The buttery texture melts effortlessly into the skin restoring softness and elasticity immediately. Great for both man and woman, The Balm is safe to use anywhere on the body. Favorite use: Moisturize dry ends and fix fly-aways.

The Daily Antioxidant Peel CA (10) is formulated with 10% Citric Acid (antioxidant found in citrus fruits) to exfoliate dead skin cells, neutralize free radicals, and help prep skin for moisturizer and serum absorption. With no rinsing or recovery time required, the result is impossibly smooth skin with improved texture and tone.

Exuviance Daily Antioxidant Peel CA (10) is an amazing rehab for the skin. Gentle enough for everyday use, this peel provides the instant gratification of glowing skin after every use.

The product comes with a jar containing 36 pads (+1 test pad), and a bottle of solution. When ready to start the regime, pour the solution over the pads and let it soak in. Then begin to use one pad over the face (can also be used on hands, neck and chest) each morning, or as tolerated. Skincare and makeup can be applied immediately after. There is no rinsing, waiting period, stinging, drying or flaking.

In a clinical study, 100% of participants reported healthier looking skin, smoother texture and a more even tone after just one use.

“The skin is constantly shedding and renewing itself. Failure of old cells to slough off leads to a dull, more aged appearance to the skin. This peel is an innovative way to incorporate gentle exfoliation and antioxidant protection into your daily routine with one easy swipe. It’s formulated by the dermatologists who created the original glycolic peel, and utilizes 10% Citric Acid to scavenge damaging free radicals brought on by environmental exposure and help prevent future signs of aging. I recommend using it between office visits to help refine skin texture, smooth fine lines, even skin discoloration, and help diminish the appearance of acne scars and environmental damage.” -Dr. Julie K. Karen, a board certified dermatologist who currently practices at the Laser and Skin Surgery Center of NY.

What are AHAs – Alpha-Hydroxyacids?

AHAs are a group of naturally ocurring acids, many of which are found in fruits (hence “fruit-acids”). AHAs are used to help improve a variety of skin disorders including xerosis (dry skin), acne, ichthyosis, seborrheic keratoses and psoriasis. They also improve pigmentary disorders and symptoms of photo-aging; such as fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, skin laxity and dullness.

AHAs penetrate the dead surface cells of the skin, loosening the molecular bonds that attach them to the underlying tissues. The loose cells slough off, exposing newer skin.

The following are the 5 major types of alpha-hydroxy acids found in skincare products and their sources:

glycolic acid – sugar cane

lactic acid – milk

malic acid – apples and pears

citric acid – oranges and lemons

tartaric acid – grapes

About Citric Acid:

Citric acid is a substance that is found naturally in citrus fruits. It is a powerful antioxidant that can improve the health of skin cells. It stimulates collagen production, fights and protects from free radicals, has skin lightening properties, reduces fine lines and wrinkles and improves the appearance of scars.

The versatile white maxi dress is a summer essential. Worn day or night, these dresses are light, breezy and comfy.

For daytime, play with some detailed sandals and fun accessories. Gold looks great with white – try-on a ton of gold bangles or bracelets. For nighttime, switch it up with some wedges and a statement accessory. A bold necklace or vibrant earrings will shine against the all-white canvas.

To avoid looking matrimonial, accessorize wisely. Add some color or texture with a belt or scarf. Try to steer clear from head-to-toe white.

NARS Eyeshadow Duos are long-wearing and crease-resistant. They are beautifully pigmented and creamy to the touch. The Duos are available in a myriad of colors and textures and are always interestingly and uniquely paired.

While scouring NARS Eyeshadows, it is easy to focus primarily on the unusual bright colors. The neutral duos have a hard time competing. NARS Eyeshadow Duo in Kalahari is a great neutral option. It contains two very wearable color combinations, a shimmering bronze with peach undertones and a warm brown with taupe undertones.

Kalahari is available in NARS’ permanent collection. Worn together or alone, these shades are richly pigmented and can be applied sheer or built-up for a more dramatic effect. Used wet, these shadows also double as eyeliners.

Kalahari will flatter any eye color. The warm tones look amazing on dark and light skin tone and will reflect beautifully in the summer sun.

IT Cosmetics by Jackie Kern stands for Innovative Technology Cosmetics. It is created with the help of leading plastic surgeons to infuse medical grade makeup with healing skin loving ingredients with cutting edge technology.

Unlike anything I have tried before, this lip product creates the most perfect stained lip. The uber moisturizing formula glides on the lips seamlessly and resembles the feeling of a glossy lip balm. After application, lips are stained with a gorgeous “your lips but better” flush. This product comes in 3 different stains: Je Ne Sais Quoi (crystalpink), Love Story (mid-range pink) and Pretty Woman (berry).

This truly innovative lip product contains IT Cosmetics Hydra-Luxe™ Technology which features plum oil, cherry oil, shea butter, aloe, and jojoba that all work together to treat, hydrate, condition, and nourish your lips. It is also packed with anti-oxidants including acai, green tea, white tea, and vitamins A, C, and E to fight free-radicals and minimize the appearance of lip lines and wrinkles.

IT Cosmetics Vitality Lip Flush 4-in-1 Anti-Aging Lipstick Stain is added to the Holy Grail list for two reasons: texture and color. It is the lip product I have always been looking but did not know existed. Until now.

Bold, turquoise green eye makeup is a perfect summer look. Tropical inspiration from ocean blues and palm frawn greens will make any eye color pop. This color family come in all sorts of textures and consistencies, choose from metallic, shimmering or pastel shades.

Aqua eyes is great look for both day or night. Start with a vibrant turquoise or shimmering green powder or cream eyeshadow and apply all over the lid. Build for more color or leave for a sheer wash. If you don’t want color on the entire lid, try a simple liner. Draw a thin or thick line on the upper or lower eyelid. For true vibrancy, first line the eye with a white pencil and go over with your favorite kohl, liquid or gel liner. This will bring the color to life.

Brighter colors tend to have more pigment and last longer on the skin – so less is more. It’s easier to build color if more is needed, but harder to remove color if you put too much on.

The word Ombré is French for shading or graduating. Hair stylists have coined this terminology to describe a color technique used in salons. Ombré hair can range from a subtle and natural effect to really dramatic and edgy. For a natural “end-of-the-summer” look, color should blend from dark to light with no harsh transition line.

Ombré hair is great for many reasons: it’s highly economical, incredibly low maintenance, and works with any texture or tone.

Almost always, bleach is the key ingredient to create the ombré effect. This is the reason one should go to a professional. Find a stylist that specializes-in or has created this look before.

Ask your stylist for lots of beachy highlights concentrated on the ends, no higher than your chin in most places. Frame your face with a few subtle pieces that are only a shade or two lighter than your natural color and then go as light as you want on the ends. To maintain the look, use a color-safe shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner. Light ends can dry out, so use a nourishing protective oil from your chin down. Try these: Enjoy Haircare.

Supergoop! Sunscreen Swipes SPF 30 (21 count): These sunscreen wipes are individually packed, perfect for throwing in your bag. The pre-moistened towelettes are formulated to calm and soothe the skin while providing complete UV protection. Great for sensitive skin, these wipes can be used all over the body.

CleanWell All Natural Hand Sanitizing Spray: Thousands of people and porta-potties… hand sanitizer is a must. This all-natural formula is made with thyme oil that kills all germs and the portable spray makes it easy to carry everywhere.

Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo (Travel Size): Extend time between washes with a dry shampoo. This gentle formula smells nice and absorbs oil and dirt – an instant refresher. Infused with oat milk, it also nourishes the hair while creating volume and texture.

RMS Cream Eyeshadow – Solar: Perfect for the desert princess, this cream eyeshadow reflects a sheer wash of gold. A great all-in-one eye product, it doubles as an eye cream to nourish and moisturize the eye area.

NARS Cream Blush – Cactus Flower: The name alone implies desert beauty. This bright coral/spicy pink cream blush can be used on both the cheeks and lips. A very subtle gold shimmer leaves the skin flushed, dewy and healthy.

Givenchy Phenomen’Eyes Waterproof Mascara: Waterproof mascara is a must-have. I assure you Givenchy’s will not budge or smudge. The spiked-ball wand takes a little to get used to but defines, separates and lengthens exquisitely. Tip: With your finger, smudge on the lashline for an instant liner effect that will last.

Laura Geller Balance-n-Bronze: A genius design, adding bronzer and foundation, all-in-one. The color-correcting foundation is sheer but never looks powdery. The baked bronzer is infused with layers of color to achieve the perfect sun-kissed shade. Swipe separately or swirl together to get a glowing, sun-goddess look.

When mixed with water, L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil transforms from a soothing oil into lavish foam. The unique texture leaves a satin-like softness all over the body keeping moisture locked into the skin. Rich in almond oil, grape vine, rosemary and nourishing lipids, L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil is suitable for both men and women.

This shower oil is unique and like nothing I have ever tried. It is by far better than any shaving cream/gel available. A pea-sized amount is enough to use on the entire leg. It permits the closest shave possible and keeps skin soft and hydrated. It cleanses the skin without stripping it dry and the sweet almond scent will blanket the entire bathroom. L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil has graduated to my Holy Grail list of products.